His consistent form has led to acclaim from the United fans, who have recently sung that it's "hard to believe it's not Scholes" to the playmaker.

"Scholes is a legend, so I don't know whether it is tongue-in-cheek but it is a nice song and I will take that," Carrick told reporters.

"It is always good to be compared to players like that. Paul is as good as it gets and has been throughout his career.

"To train alongside him and have the chance to learn every day has been something I have tried to make the most of. It has helped me bring my own game on whether he knows it or not and that has been a big help."

Carrick believes that United's team spirit is a product of their mutual appreciation for each other's contributions in different areas of the pitch.

"It shows the respect there is within the squad for each other's game," added Carrick. "We all have different qualities and we all want to help each other to be successful."